London, United Kingdom – FIFA has launched disciplinary investigations into a number of players and officials of the Argentine national team, following incidents that occurred during the team’s matches in the 2026 World Cup.
The Guardian reported that the investigations came after a number of Argentina players raised a banner after their 2-1 victory over England in the semi-finals, which included a message confirming that the Falkland Islands belonged to Argentina, which FIFA considered to be in violation of its regulations prohibiting messages or slogans of a non-sporting nature during tournaments.
The newspaper added that the investigations are not limited to the banner incident, as FIFA is also examining accusations related to discriminatory chants and gestures, delays in the start of some matches, and non-compliance with match protocols and approved security procedures.
The investigations also include other incidents, including the display of inappropriate messages by Argentine players and fans, as well as the throwing of projectiles from the stands, during more than one match played by the national team in the tournament.
The report explained that FIFA also opened an investigation into the clashes that broke out after Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final, which was hosted at the New York New Jersey stadium in the United States.
The duo of Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina are under investigation for allegedly assaulting Spain players Rodri and Eric Garcia, according to FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, while the investigations also extend to Roberto Ayala, assistant coach of the Argentina national team.
The Guardian noted that Thiago Almada, along with Nahuel Molina and Spain international Xavi, faces charges of unsportsmanlike conduct in connection with the events following the final match.
Argentina finished as runners-up in the 2026 World Cup, after losing to Spain 1-0, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in extra time.
